The Arena Football League (AFL) announced today that it is suspending the entire 2009 season, but will reorganize and return in 2010, according to reports in the New York Times and Cleveland Plain Dealer.

ESPN has a minority, non-controlling ownership stake in the AFL.

"I think it's a historic day for the league," the owner and chief executive of the Cleveland Gladiators, James L. Ferraro, told The Times in a telephone interview Sunday night. "I think this league will be much, much stronger, and it will be here for a long time because of what happened."

He added: “This is the farthest thing from the league folding. This is, in my opinion, just showing us the league will not fold.”

"Every owner in the AFL is strongly committed to the League, the game, and, most importantly, the fans," interim Commissioner Ed Policy said in the statement. "Owners, however, recognize that, especially in light of the current unprecedented economic climate, the AFL, as a business enterprise, needs to be restructured if it is to continue to provide its unique brand of this affordable, fan-friendly sport.

"We remain grateful to the greatest fans in the world for their avidity and their patience. It is with them in mind that the AFL, its owners and its players remain committed to resuming play as soon as it is feasible.''

"As soon as it is feasible'' does not automatically mean 2010.”

Owners across the league weighed in on the season shutdown.

"We, the owners of the Arena Football League, realize we have the most fan-friendly, affordable and accessible sport anywhere," said Jon Bon Jovi, co-owner of ArenaBowl champion Philadelphia Soul. "These are trying economic times. The revamping will ensure that the AFL continues to provide value to its fans and not only survives but thrives in the years to come."

"Our involvement with the Arena Football League was always geared toward promoting football on a year-round basis," Dallas Desperados owner Jerry Jones said. "Our experience with the Desperados has accomplished those goals and has been very positive. As we move forward we will explore all of the options that are available in regard to the future of the AFL and the Desperados."

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